Screens

Summary

Formula 1 motorbike racing is surely the unofficial sport of kings and Namco has come dressed in coronation gowns, ready to induct you into this phenomenal sport. The arcade version of Namco Moto GP was an awesome sight, comprising of four plasma monitors and four life-size motorbikes. The PlayStation 2 version is a direct port of the arcade, with a few extra bits thrown in for good measure.

We started playing in arcade mode, with the new simulator option turned off. Namco’s developers have really gone for a realistic experience, modelling the physics and handling characteristics from real bike data. You have to brake strongly before entering any kind of curve or corner, and must do so well in advance. As when riding a real bike, you must commence your lean into a corner a good few bike lengths from the apex. This can prove tricky at first, but with practice becomes easy to get to grips with.

Graphically, Moto GP is astounding, though anti-aliasing would have helped. The animation on the bikes and riders is exquisite, with a massive polygon count producing amongst the most realistic graphics ever seen on home console. This is particularly evident in replay mode. The camera angle and movement is completely believable and captures the rider writhing around on top of the bike perfectly.

There is a myriad of gameplay options to tinker with. From the most fundamental, like a choice of world class GP bikes, right down to the ability to tweak every nut and bolt on the bike to optimise its handling.

Moto GP is a stunning looking racer and can be adapted to suit almost every level of gaming experience.